Lancaster theater reopening after sitting dormant for five years

LANCASTER, Ky. (WKYT) - Sitting empty and unused for years, a big part of a small town’s downtown area is open again.

The Grand Theater in Lancaster is once again having events, and one of the city’s native sons put on a sold-out performance this week to get the venue going again.

It had been almost five years since a signature event was held at The Grand in downtown Lancaster.

“Then I felt the community wasn’t being short-changed, but an opportunity was being missed,” said Grand Manager Kent Keller.

It opened originally in 1925, then closed, then re-opened for a time, then was dormant during the COVID-19 pandemic.

It only has 457 seats, but many believe it’s the prime place for entertainment and events.

“We don’t have anything like this, and lots of other communities do. It’s nice that we can have one now. And it’s beautiful. History, too,” said local resident Debbie Tudor.

The event Monday was a first for Alex Miller, who earned both local and national fame recently as a contestant on American Idol.

“Playing here has long been a dream of mine. I’ve been here and seen things. The fact that this theater is back going again is great for the town of Lancaster,” said Miller.

The Grand got its jump-start Monday with a sell-out show by Miller, who’s been touring the country nearly nonstop for about three and a half years.

“It’s taking me all over the world. Seen some great places and stages. It is really cool to be at this stage. My grandpa used to come here and watch movies back in the day,” Miller said.

Now, Miller is the main attraction in a venue with history, charm, and on Monday, local flavor.

“I am thrilled to be here. I think the theater is exactly the right size for optimal interaction,” said Keller.

Miller said his dream since American Idol has been to showcase his hometown.

“Being able to bring all these people into our town, see what Lancaster is all about is my goal,” said Miller.

It had been dark for so long, but now people believe the future is as bright as its lights, and soon-to-be stars performing here.

“All the seats are great here, even the ones in the so-called nose bleeds, there are no nose bleeds here,” said Keller.

Keller says there are already plans for concerts this weekend by Micah Tyler, then Big Daddy Weave and soon Eddy Montgomery. He says they have initial plans for at least 12 other acts and that the theater can also host recitals, movies, and even functions for clubs and organizations.